The woman's son, Michael Disbrowe, was shot and killed after police responded to reports of a man "threatening people with a gun." He reportedly drew a gun from his waistband when confronted by officers and ignored commands to put it down, even pointing it at the officers, which prompted them to shoot him.

KCCI's general manager commended both Victor and Hayes for demonstrating "the utmost professionalism in the face of a very difficult, emotionally-charged situation."

Many other journalists have particularly praised Victor for her conduct in the heat of the moment.